Still wondering what to do in Saranda? Opodo has the top must-see plans so you won't miss a thing. Find everything you need to know before picking your stay in Saranda and book your hotel today!
Saranda, positioned on Albania's southern coastline, offers a gateway to the Ionian Sea and its clear waters. The town serves as a popular base for exploring nearby historical sites and natural attractions. Its promenade, lined with various eateries and establishments, provides views across the bay towards Corfu.
Visitors often head to Lekursi Castle, which stands on a hill overlooking the town, offering a broad panorama of the area, including the Ksamil islands. The ancient city of Butrint, a UNESCO World Heritage site with its well-preserved Roman theatre and basilica, is a short journey south, providing a significant archaeological experience.
For many visitors to Saranda, the area around the Promenade is a particularly popular choice for booking accommodation. This central stretch offers easy access to the seafront and a wide selection of hotels, apartments, and guest houses, often with views of the Ionian Sea.
Venturing slightly north of the Promenade, you’ll find the Lekuresi Castle area, although fewer hotels are directly adjacent to the castle itself due to its elevated position. Accommodation here tends to be more residential, with villas and private rentals offering a quieter experience and impressive panoramic views of the city and coastline. The castle itself is a significant landmark, providing an excellent spot for evening meals with a vista.
South of the main Promenade, towards the Port of Saranda, the atmosphere shifts slightly. This district, while still offering plenty of hotels and eateries, has a more functional feel due to its role as a transport hub. Guests staying here can easily catch ferries to Corfu or other coastal towns. This area also provides convenient access to various seafood restaurants and local shops.
When considering your hotel location, it’s worth thinking about transport. Saranda’s main bus station is centrally located, making it straightforward to reach your accommodation if arriving by coach from elsewhere in Albania. For air travel, the closest major airport is Corfu International Airport (CFU), with a regular ferry service connecting Corfu to Saranda Port. Alternatively, Tirana International Airport Nënë Tereza (TIA) is a longer journey by bus or private transfer, so proximity to the bus station might be a consideration if flying into Tirana.
When planning your stay in Saranda, a smart approach can help you manage your accommodation costs. Generally, hotel prices will be considerably higher during the peak summer months. To secure more affordable rates, consider visiting during the shoulder seasons – late spring (May to early June) or early autumn (September to mid-October). The weather is still pleasant then, but the crowds have lessened, and prices are typically lower.
For the most significant savings, look at booking during the low season, which runs from November to March. While the weather will be cooler and some seasonal businesses might be closed, you'll find the best deals on hotels, and you can still enjoy the quieter side of the Albanian Riviera. Another specific tip for Saranda is to look slightly away from the main promenade or the very centre, as properties a short walk inland often offer better value without sacrificing convenience.